Laser coagulation of veins: indications, advantages, stages

Coagulation of the veins of the lower extremities: methods, advantages

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) - an innovative technique for removing varicose veins of the lower extremities using the energy of thermal radiation from the laser. EVLA is performed without surgical incisions, under local anesthesia with continuous ultrasound monitoring. Due to this, the probability of damage to other veins is close to zero. Postoperative discomfort and hematomas are less pronounced than in classical phlebectomy, patients return to work faster. Laser coagulation of veins is successfully used in leading specialized clinics and medical centers in Europe and the United States.

Why endovasal laser coagulation is needed

The procedure is indicated for pathological changes (nodules, dilation) of the veins of the lower extremities. Causes of varicose veins - congenital weakness of the venous wall, valve insufficiency. More information about the causes of venous insufficiency and methods of treatment will be provided by a specialist, and you can make an appointment with him on our website Dobrobut.com.

Why do you need endovasal laser coagulation? For timely treatment of varicose veins. Often the procedure is performed in combination with miniphlebectomy or sclerotherapy. This approach provides the optimal result and long-term effect of treatment.

Advantages of EVLA:

• the low intensity of postoperative pain and discomfort;
• use of local anesthesia;
• no incision in the groin;
• quick recovery after surgery;
• minimal risk of postoperative complications;
• no need to stay in the hospital;
• high (98%) efficiency of the technique;
• minimum cases of recurrence;
• good cosmetic effect.

Indications for EVLA:

• Stages 2 and 3 of varicose veins;
• the presence of subjective symptoms (oedema, heaviness in the lower extremities, pain after short exercise);
• no effect of conservative therapy.

The main contraindications for EVLA:

• running coronary heart disease and angina;
• recent strokes and myocardial infarction;
• critical ischemia of the lower extremities (atherosclerosis);
• thrombophilia (the disease is manifested in the tendency to form blood clots);
• the presence of concomitant pathology that requires priority treatment;
• the need to take blood thinners;
• inability to ensure adequate physical activity in the postoperative period.

How endovasal laser coagulation is performed

No special preparation for the procedure of laser coagulation of the veins of the lower extremities is required. First, the doctor marks the affected veins: under the control of ultrasound, the puncture site and areas where it is necessary to extend the exposure to laser radiation.

How is endovasal laser coagulation:

• The surgeon visualizes the vein with an ultrasound scanner.
• The doctor performs a puncture of the vein and, under the control of ultrasound, inserts an LED into it. The manipulation is performed under local anesthesia.
• Before turning on the laser, the doctor, nurse and patient wear goggles.
• Through the lumen of a special needle, the surgeon inserts a laser light guide.
• The surgeon performs tumescent anesthesia along the entire length of the ultrasound-guided vein. It is worth noting that anesthetics not only eliminate the pain but also remove some of the heat generated by the laser. This ensures the protection of adjacent tissues.
• As the laser fiber is moved along the vessel, it is sealed, i.e. directly obliterated. The patient does not feel pain because of the anesthetic.
• The process is controlled by a computer program, so the laser energy is strictly dosed. The laser acts directly on the venous walls, heat them, causing them to compress. Neighboring tissues are not affected.
• After laser treatment of blood vessels, a compression bandage is applied to the patient's leg.

EVLA – results

After the obliteration procedure, the "sealed" vein is removed from the circulatory system. But do not worry: deep and superficial veins are interconnected, so blood flow is redirected. When "sealing" the affected veins, blood circulation is normalized. After laser coagulation, the improvement is observed almost immediately.

The EVLA procedure lasts about 30-60 minutes. After that, the patient is free and can go home. Immediately after surgery, doctors recommend a half-hour walk. After 5-6 days, compression stockings can be removed at night. Compression stockings should be worn during the day for two months after EVLA. If you experience pain, pulling along the vein, you can take a pill of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.